ROCKALND, MAINE — EarthWise Pet, a pet supply franchise, acquired six retail locations throughout Maine from Loyal Biscuit on March 13. The acquisition will enable EarthWise Pet and Loyal Biscuit to better serve pet parents throughout the state.

According to Loyal Biscuit Owner Heidi Neal, EarthWise Pet’s philosophy is similar to that of Loyal Biscuit. Neal became owner of the pet retail franchise in 2010, after purchasing a single Loyal Biscuit store. Since then, she grew the franchise to include six locations with more than 40 employees.

“Partnering with EarthWise Pet will give my employees more opportunities to grow,” Neal said. “Better employee benefits like health insurance, pet nutrition education and team support, plus the ability to add extra services like grooming and Certified Pet Dietitian consultations.”

According to EarthWise Pet, the acquisition will benefit both retailers as they seek to offer greater support, more opportunities and services to the community of Maine.

“We're aware that Loyal Biscuit means a lot to the communities it serves, providing healthy and nutritious pet food, quality toys, and well-trained employees to help pet parents navigate the world of pet food,” said Michael Seitz, chief executive officer of EarthWise Pet. “These are values that EarthWise Pet has nurtured for more than 40 years, which is why the acquisition made perfect sense for both parties.”

At this point, EarthWise Pet has yet to decide to rebrand the Loyal Biscuit stores under the EarthWise Pet name. However, according to the retailer, the pet food and supplies found at Loyal Biscuit stores will continue to be available.

“EarthWise Pet prides itself on not being a big box pet store,” Seitz said. “In fact, we have been leading locally owned, community-focused pet supply stores with integrity for our entire existence. ‘Our Pets Are Family’ mentality will continue as we foster and further the growth of what Heidi and her team have already built over the years, and we hope the community continues to support the Loyal Biscuit and EarthWise Pet family.”

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